Calcium

Question 1

-deficit of calcium

Answer 1

hypocalcemia ( < 8.5 mg/dL)

Question 2

what are the signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia?

Answer 2

Neuromuscular: numbness, tingling
Muscles: hyperactive reflexes, cramps, tetany
Skeletal: bone pain
Heart: ventricular dysrhythmias, decreased BP

Question 3

what tests can be performed and reactions measured with hypocalcemia?

Answer 3

Chvostek’s sign

Trousseau’s sign

Question 4

what deficiency occurs when the client displays a positive Chvostek’s sign and/or Trousseau’s sign?

Answer 4

hypocalcemia (and possibly hypomagnesemia)

Question 5

what is the tx for hypocalcemia?

Answer 5

IV calcium (administer slowly!)

Question 6

-excess of calcium

Answer 6

hypercalcemia ( >10.5 mg/dL)

Question 7

what can cause hypercalcemia?

Answer 7

• increased reabsorption of calcium from bones

- excess milk or vitamin D

Question 8

what are the signs and symptoms of hypercalcemia?

Answer 8

Muscle: weakness
GI: nausea, vomiting, constipation
General: lethargy, coma, increased thirst
Heart: increased BP
Kidneys: increased urine output

Question 9

what is the tx for hypercalcemia?

Answer 9

IV water replacement

diuretics

Question 10

what is the normal range in the body for calcium?

Answer 10

8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL

Question 11

what foods contain calcium?

Answer 11

milk products
dark leafy green vegetables
salmon

Question 12

• regulates cardiac muscle contractions, relaxation and neuromuscular function
• regulated by parathyroid in ECF
• works with phosphorous to strengthen bones and teeth

Answer 12

calcium